First “Ruff” Draft Read Aloud

On March 21, 2012, my friends let me borrow their kiddos for my first focus group. Many thanks to them. It was a blast and very helpful. The first story is entitled Not Your Ordinary Pet Detective (NYoPD): The Case of the Staring Contest. Each child drew his/her favorite part of the story. It was unanimous; they all picked the scene where Teddy has a staring contest with a cat in the neighborhood. I love Jonah’s idea of what the dog and cat might be thinking as they stare at each other. Laura didn’t know how to draw her favorite part, the “doggies,” so she colored this butterfly and rainbow instead. All of the kids were such a pleasure to read to. Be sure to click on the pictures for a full screen gallery view.

Jonah, first grader

Katelyn, 5 years old

Julia, kindergartner

Will, first grader

Laura, 4 years old

The second story is a fairy tale, Goldilocks and Bear. Will, Jonah, and Katelyn agreed that the best part was when Bear belched in the princess’ face. Ainsley drew the bird feeder that Goldilocks saw in the gardens. Julia appreciated the end when Goldilocks and Bear become friends. Note: Julia let me have her picture, but only once I understood that she was not done with the blue sky. 🙂